InterRegio

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InterRegio: A simple guide to Europe’s semi-fast trains

InterRegio (IR) is a European train category for semi-fast, mostly domestic routes. IR trains stop more often than high‑speed long‑distance services but fewer than local trains, making them cheaper than the fastest options while still covering longer distances.

Switzerland
InterRegio started in 1997 and is now common across the Swiss network. IR trains connect regions throughout Switzerland and even run to Konstanz in Germany. They’re operated by several Swiss railways (SBB, BLS, RhB, SOB) and many routes have been numbered and colored for easy identification. Some IR services are named, and the system blends with other long‑distance services when needed.

Poland
Poland introduced InterRegio in 2009 via Przewozy Regionalne. The first IR linked Białystok with Warsaw. Early IR trains ran mainly on Fridays and Sundays, but over time more routes were added. In 2009 all IR trains became second‑class only. By 2015, most IR services were withdrawn, with only Łódź–Warszawa and Ełk–Grodno (Belarus) remaining on some schedules; many routes were replaced by PKP Intercity services.

Austria
ÖBB plans to add InterRegio as a long‑distance category in 2025. The main rollout was expected in December 2025. As of late 2025, several IR services were already in operation on routes like Aichfeld, Ennstal–Pinzgau, Pyhrn, and Mur–Drau, linking key cities with regional lines.

Denmark
InterRegio was used in Denmark starting in the 1990s as a cheaper alternative to InterCity. These IR trains typically require no seat reservations and run mainly on Fridays and Sundays, with fewer stops than some InterCity services. Rolling stock varies and schedule patterns have changed over time.

Portugal
Comboios de Portugal (CP) runs Interregionais on several lines, offering faster service than regional trains but not as fast as InterCity. Routes include connections such as Porto to Régua to Pocinho, and Porto to Coimbra and Lisbon to Tomar, among others. The service uses a mix of CP Regional trains and refurbished stock.

Switzerland (overview)
InterRegio remains a key part of Switzerland’s rail system, focusing on region-to-region travel with regular but not ultra-fast service. IR trains offer a balance between price and speed and are widely used across the country.

Countries where InterRegio services no longer operate
- Belgium: IR trains were slower than IC trains and made more stops; most IR lines were converted to InterCity or local trains or canceled by December 2014.
- Germany: IR ran from 1988 to 2003 and were largely replaced by InterCity and Interregio-Express services.
- Italy: InterRegio was used from 1993 but was renamed or reorganized in 2006 into CityExpress or regional trains (RV/RGV); since then the IR label has largely disappeared.